Double Demerits in QLD

Many people in Queensland believe that during holiday periods, all traffic offences result in double demerit points. But this is not the case! Double demerit points only apply to certain specific offences, such as speeding, not wearing a seatbelt or helmet, and using a mobile phone while driving. These are considered high-risk behaviours that have a greater chance of causing accidents and injuries. And it’s important to note that you can receive double demerit points for these offences all year round, not just during holidays.

Double demerit points are applied for certain second or subsequent offences committed within 1 year of the previous offence.

This includes:

  • offences for speeding more than 20km/h over the speed limit
  • mobile phone offences
  • driver seatbelt offences
  • motorcycle helmet offences.

You don’t have to commit the same offence a second or subsequent time to receive double demerit points—the offence only needs to be within the same offence group.

Another common misconception is how demerit points are accumulated. Many believe you start with 12 points, but that’s not true. In reality, you start with zero points. Each time you receive an infringement notice for a demerit point offence, you accumulate points to your total. It’s important to remember that you don’t lose points; you accumulate them; if you accumulate 12 points, your licence will be suspended.

In conclusion, double demerit points in Queensland are a way to increase road safety by increasing penalties for certain high-risk traffic offences. So next time you’re on the road, make sure to obey traffic laws and drive safely to avoid any fines or demerit points.

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